Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora ki Kirikiriroa is on at Hamilton Gardens from 20 Feb - 1 Mar 2026. Enclosed Garden closures will be listed here. Please ask staff for details.

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Celebrate International Children’s Day with a little magic at Hamilton Gardens!

Step inside a world of imagination as we unveil the Kitchen Garden Shed — Hamilton Gardens’ newest creative installation — on Saturday 28 February, 10am–11am, during the Hamilton Arts Festival.

 

Created by Hamilton artist and ceramist Wilhelmiina Drummond, the Garden Shed opens a doorway into the whimsical realm of the Gardens Keeper and the tiny folk who call the shed home. 🍄🧚

Learn more about Wilhelmiina Drummond's work here.

Families can join us for a special ribbon‑cutting ceremony and a warm community welcome as this enchanting new space is revealed for the very first time.

 

Storytelling With the Artist

Wilhelmiina will read The Garden Shed: Magical Meetings, the charming tale that inspired the artwork — featuring Augus, Linnea, fairy cottages, treehouses, glowing suitcases, and wee surprises hidden throughout the shed. It’s a story designed to spark curiosity and encourage visitors to look a little closer.

 

Activities for Tamariki

Hamilton City Libraries will host free activities for tamariki aged six and under, helping young explorers connect with themes of nature, creativity, and imaginative play.

 

Make a Morning of It

After the unveiling, stay on for Dr Hubble’s Brilliant Bubbles show at 11am (book tickets here) and continue the fun as part of the Hamilton Arts Festival.

 

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday 28 February 2026
⏰ Time: 10am–11am
📍 Location: Hamilton Gardens
💰 Cost: Free to attend; Enclosed Gardens entry applies for adults and children 15+ (MyGardens Pass accepted)

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Looking across the garden beds towards the fountain in the Italian Renaissance Garden at Hamilton Gardens

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